Luis Suarez hailed Barcelona for handling the ‘pressure’ in their 2-0 win at Villarreal and Paco Alcacer for changing the game.

Suarez’s finish paved the way for Barca to maintain their five-point lead at the top of La Liga, but the striker singled out Alcacer, who “again showed how important he was for the team” during his substitute appearance.

“We knew the pressure we were under because our rivals had won, and that forced us to have a good game and pick up the three points,” he said after the match.

“In the first half, we didn’t create any real chances, also because they were playing very well, but after the break we came out in a different way.

“Villarreal are always very difficult opponents at their place, and it’s true that the first half was very tight, but after the red card, we were able to create more chances.

“A red card always hurts a team, and Paco’s introduction went very well. He again showed how important he was for the team.

“Link-up with Messi? We know each other very well. His numbers speak for themselves.

“It’s another piece of play that’ll make him even more proud of everything he’s done for Barca.”